One property had its water heater stolen not once but twice as well as the furnace in the second attempt.

Choosing a professional restoration company seems really important, especially for damage like water, fire, or mold.

before you go down the rabbit hole to far as @Bruce Lynn mentioned see if the jurisdiction were the lots are located will even allow a surface operation within their zoning code or that lot size.. thats the first thing I would do.Being an old land man I have dealt with a ton of mineral and water rights.. there is a lot to those buggers..

I'm told a permit is required to replace a water heater.

Extensions are likely granted, if needed.You will receive $3k relocation assistance at the end ( unless you have other liens, back due water/sewer/HOA etc. ) You can also stay in the home until the sale closes, which gives you at least a few months payment free to be able to figure out where you will relocate.

I'd only look at land that's at least connected to water and power and already has a septic plan in place.

I guess my other understanding is that I have to provide it is water proof and it is correctly zone for fire.

That is the best advice I can give you.The forums have several folks that have gotten hosed by the city trying to do a STR even though they did everything right.

They almost flooded the entire ceiling the first day because they couldn't even figure out how to turn the water all the way off.I am looking for an answer on how I can deal with this.

Lack of water?